No – cockfighting remains illegal in South Carolina under the statutes that are in force through 2026. The state’s animal‑cruelty code expressly prohibits organized bird‑fighting, and recent legislative sessions have reinforced rather than loosened those prohibitions.
Current Statutory Framework
South Carolina’s anti‑cockfighting law is codified at S.C. Code Ann. § 16‑23‑340. It defines a “cockfighting” as any activity in which two roosters are placed together for the purpose of fighting, and it criminalizes the act, the organization of such events, and the possession of “fighting cock” equipment. The law classifies a first‑offense violation as a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a $500 fine, or both, while repeat offenses can be elevated to a felony with higher penalties.
Legislative Activity 2024‑2026
During the 2024 and 2025 General Assemblies, lawmakers considered a bill (HB 5023) that would have lowered the penalty threshold for first‑time offenders. The proposal failed to secure sufficient support, and in 2026 the Senate passed SB 1198, which strengthened enforcement by authorizing local sheriffs to seize birds, equipment, and cash proceeds from illegal bouts. The bill also mandated mandatory reporting of suspected cockfighting to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).
Penalties and Enforcement
- Misdemeanor (first offense): up to 30 days incarceration, $500 fine, forfeiture of birds.
- Felony (second or subsequent offenses): up to 2 years imprisonment, $2,000 fine, and permanent bar from owning poultry.
Law enforcement agencies collaborate with the SCDNR and the Attorney General’s Office to conduct covert operations, especially in rural counties where underground fights have historically occurred. In 2025, a statewide crackdown resulted in 27 arrests and the seizure of more than 150 roosters.
Community Impact
Although supporters argue that cockfighting is a cultural tradition, the practice poses significant animal‑welfare concerns and can be linked to other illicit activities such as gambling and drug distribution. Public health officials also note that the gathering places for these events increase the risk of disease transmission among both birds and humans. Recent community outreach programs emphasize education on humane animal treatment and provide alternative economic opportunities for those historically involved in the blood‑sport.
Is a person convicted of a first‑time cockfighting offense eligible for a plea bargain?
Yes. Prosecutors may offer a plea to a reduced misdemeanor charge, especially if the defendant cooperates with investigations and agrees to surrender all fighting birds and equipment.
How does South Carolina’s cockfighting law compare to neighboring states?
North Carolina and Georgia also classify cockfighting as a felony, but South Carolina’s statutes provide a clearer escalation path from misdemeanor to felony, allowing judges greater discretion based on repeat offenses.
Can a private property owner be held liable if a cockfight occurs on their land without their knowledge?
Yes. The law imposes strict liability on property owners who permit or fail to prevent the use of their premises for illegal bird‑fighting, even if they claim ignorance.
What resources are available for individuals seeking to exit the cockfighting industry?
The SCDNR offers a “Transition Assistance Program” that includes job‑training grants, counseling, and small‑business loans aimed at former participants.
Are there any upcoming bills that might change the legal status of cockfighting after 2026?
As of the latest legislative calendar, no bills have been introduced to legalize cockfighting. The prevailing trend is toward stronger enforcement and higher penalties, indicating that the prohibition will likely remain in effect beyond 2026.